Linux Mint Essentials

Configuring and testing the iptables firewall

Firewalls are another aspect of security worth considering. If your computer is connected to a router with a built-in firewall (most routers contain firewalls by default), then you are already reasonably protected from the outside world. However, a firewall in your router doesn't protect you from hacking attempts from inside your local network.

Note

Although activating a firewall helps on a portable device used on public networks, it's still not a substitute for using a VPN service to pass your Internet traffic through an encrypted tunnel. If you use a laptop in a public place such as a Net Cafe, consider using a VPN service to protect your machine from packet sniffing tools used by someone around you. ...